Is CompTIA Security+ the Best First Certification to Get?
Henry Kogan
CompTIA’s roots: from chaos to credibility
If you’re eyeing a cybersecurity career, the CompTIA Security+ certification is likely on your radar. It’s a top entry-level credential, but is it the best starting point? I investigated its history and quirks, plus what certificate holders in our community are saying.
In 1982, the personal computing boom was messy. Incompatible systems and untrained resellers made it hard to get your foot in the door. A group of dealers formed the Association of Better Computer Dealers (ABCD) to set quality standards and provide training. By 1990, they rebranded as the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), expanding their mission to advance the IT industry.
In 2002, CompTIA launched Security+, a vendor-neutral certification that’s now a global standard for aspiring cybersecurity pros.
10 quirky facts about Security+
Security+ has unique quirks that make it stand out. Here’s what certificate holders say:
1. Older than some security pros
Born in 2002, Security+ predates many of today’s IT professionals.
Certificate holders say: “It’s like this wise elder you have to respect.”
2. Pay to play
The ~$400 exam fee applies every attempt—pass or fail. Candidates find this costly quirk frustrating.
Certificate holders say: “If I’d do it all over again, I’d user a more credible training platform to study from.”
3. Renewal rollercoaster
It expires every three years, requiring continuing education or retesting. Pros wonder, “Didn’t I already prove myself?”
Certificate holders say: “It’s not a set it and forget it type of thing. You need those CPE credits!”
4. Vendor-neutral edge
Unlike Cisco or Microsoft certs, Security+ isn’t brand-specific, making it versatile but quirky in a brand-driven field.
Certificate holders say: “It’s nice to not have a vendor agenda attached to the certification.”
5. Too easy or too theoretical?
Some find it a breeze, while others call it too textbook-heavy, lacking hands-on depth. Yet, it’s a must for many jobs.
Certificate holders say: “I felt it was like learning how to drive stick shift using a textbook.”
6. Global fame, local doubts
It’s a golden ticket globally but a mere checkbox in some markets, depending on local job demands.
Certificate holders say: “Check job postings first to see if it’s a must-have in your region.”
7. Dry study guides
Official materials are criticized as dull, like reading a manual for fun—but you’ll need extra resources.
8. Performance-based twist
Hands-on questions simulate real IT tasks, surprising those expecting only multiple-choice.
Certificate holders say: “You can’t memorize and expect to ace the exam.”
9. Social study scene
Vibrant forums and study groups make it oddly social, like a club for lone wolves.
“The sheer amount of people preparing for the certification is cool, just look on Reddit!”
10. Stepping stone or hurdle?
It’s a launchpad to advanced certs like CISSP, though some question investing in a “starter” credential.
Certificate holders say: “If you already have some knowledge in cybersecurity and have your foot in the door, it’s probably not the best place to start.”
Is Security+ worth it?
Ask 100 cybersecurity pros how they started, and you’ll get varied answers, but patterns emerge. Security+ is often required for roles like security analyst, proving you grasp network security, threat management, and compliance. It’s a stepping stone to advanced certifications and higher-paying jobs. At ~$400 and 30-40 hours of study, it’s an investment, but its value varies by region—check local job postings. ISMG’s perspective? Security+ is a foundational credential that signals your readiness to learn job-specific skills, making it a smart first step.
Here are some of the pros and cons so you can make the most informed decision:
Why It’s a Great Choice
- Job Market Must-Have: Security+ is often required for entry-level roles like security analyst or network administrator. It’s a trusted credential that proves you know the basics of network security, threat management, and compliance.
- Vendor-Neutral Advantage: Its broad focus makes it applicable across industries, from tech startups to government agencies.
- Career Springboard: It’s a stepping stone to advanced certifications like CISSP or CEH, opening doors to higher-paying roles.
- Hands-On Edge: The performance-based questions ensure you’re not just memorizing answers—you’re learning skills you’ll use on the job.
The Caveats
- Cost and Effort: At ~$400, plus study time (30-40 hours), it’s an investment. If you’re already experienced, you might skip it for something more advanced.
- Theoretical Focus: Some criticize its lack of deep hands-on training, so you’ll need to supplement with labs or real-world practice.
- Location Matters: Its value varies by region—check job postings in your area to confirm demand.
Why choose CyberEd.io’s Security+ prep path?
CyberEd.io’s CompTIA Security+ Prep Path is your key to success:
- Hands-On Labs: Practice real-world scenarios with interactive simulations.
- Expert-Led Content: Learn from global pros who simplify complex topics.
- Self-Paced Flexibility: Study in ~30-40 hours on your schedule.
- CPE Credits: Maintain Security+ or other certifications like CISSP.
CompTIA Security+ is more than a certification—it’s your entry ticket to a booming industry. With its quirky history, global reach, and practical focus, it’s a solid starting point for anyone serious about cybersecurity. Don’t let the weird facts scare you off; they’re part of what makes Security+ unique!
Ready to ace the exam and kickstart your career? Sign up for CyberEd.io’s Security+ Prep Path today and get access to expert-led training, hands-on labs, and exclusive resources. Visit CyberEd.io to explore the course, join our newsletter for free cybersecurity tips, and take the first step toward becoming a cybersecurity pro. Your future in tech starts now!